Here's why and what you can say instead:
* Chaldean is a dialect of Aramaic. It doesn't have a distinct standardized language like Arabic or Hebrew. This means there's variation in greetings based on region and individual usage.
* "Shalom" is commonly used. It's the Hebrew word for "peace" and is often used as a greeting in Chaldean communities.
* "Salam" is another popular option. It's the Arabic word for "peace" and is also widely understood within the Chaldean community.
* Other expressions exist. You might hear "Shlonak" (male) or "Shlonich" (female), meaning "How are you?" This is often used as a casual greeting.
To be most respectful:
* If you're unsure, "Shalom" or "Salam" are safe and widely understood.
* If you know someone who speaks Chaldean, ask them for the greeting they prefer.
Remember, language is a living thing and evolves over time. There's no single "correct" way to say hello in Chaldean. The most important thing is to be respectful and communicate effectively.